§ Mr. Kenneth Clarkeasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what is now the average time which elapses between an appeal being lodged against the refusal of an entry certificate to an alleged dependant of a resident of the United Kingdom and a hearing taking 303W place before the immigration tribunal; and what steps he is taking to reduce that time.
§ Mr. Alexander W. LyonIt is normal for several months to elapse before appeals against the refusal of entry clearances can be heard, and some cases take longer. Delays can occur in the United Kingdom, in the country of application or in both. The position is unsatisfactory and we are considering urgently what steps can be taken to reduce the delay.